Today at 3 p.m. EDT on Sky Sports from the United Kingdom, Gary Sykes defends his British super featherweight belt against the man who unceremoniously knocked him out of a thought-to-be easy payday at Prizefighter in November 2010, Gary Buckland.
Sykes (19-1, 5 KO) and Buckland (23-2, 8 KO) have little separating them going into this rematch, says our own Dave Oakes:
This has all the makings of a fantastic fight, Sykes has the edge in skill, as well as incredible fitness levels, whilst Buckland is the stronger, bigger puncher and will have the confidence of knowing he has knocked out Sykes before.
The fight comes down to how well Sykes can cope with the expected early onslaught from Buckland. Sykes can’t afford to let Buckland take charge of the first four rounds, if he does, Buckland’s strength sapping work will pay dividends later on. Sykes will have to use all of his skills and movement to avoid early danger and establish some semblance of control.
It wouldn’t be a shock if there was a split decision here, there’s hardly anything to separate the two combatants. It’s a tough call, however, it is my job to make one and I favour Sykes. His skills and stamina should be just enough to edge what will undoubtedly be an enjoyable fight for the fans.
Bad Left Hook will be here with live, round-by-round coverage of the fight from the Ponds Forge Arena in Sheffield. Join us this afternoon!